A survey on the status and constraints of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.) production in Metekel Zone, North Western Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was carried out to examine the status and constraints of finger millet Eleusine coracana L.) production in four districts of Metekel zone in Benishangul gumuz region, Ethiopia. Primary data were collected from 120 farmers using structured questionnaire. The analytical tool that was used included descriptive statistics. Results showed that farmers cultivated finger millet, sorghum, maize, pulse and oil crops in 95%, 59%, 69%, 23% and 47% proportions of their total cultivate lands respectively. The result indicated that majority of the population cultivates finger millet since it is the main staple food in the area. The study also showed that weeds were the major constraints of finger millet production which was accounted for 55%, of the production loss. On the other hand insects (termite), diseases (e,g blast), and rat infestation had an impact on production lose with 23%, 16% and 16% respectively. The study identified no application or improper application of inputs (fertilizers and seed) and not exercising the recommended management practices were the major problems in finger millet production. Therefore, it is necessary to provide intensive training and adequate extension services to the farmers and development agents to promote better finger millet production in the above mentioned study areas of Ethiopia.